Terrill fires his arrow which strikes true piercing Deandre through the eye, she stands there a moment not moving before crumpling to the floor, the point of the arrow protruding from the back of her skull.
Halli screams at the sight, but you can't tell whether from shock or from enjoyment, or maybe a little of both. Polami continues to lay on the floor unconscious.
Callanto lobs another blob of acid at the only one still standing, Halli.
The acid finds it's target and sears into Halli's flesh. Halli, having forgotten about Polami in her unconcious state turns to return fire at Callanto.
Her acid seems to find it's way as well, although doing a bit more damage to Callanto.
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Rilmor calls upon his god's blessing for himself (Touch of Law). He speaks back to the rest of the party, "Stay back as best you can and keep firing. I'll keep the person ahead occupied."
Rilmor moves up to block Halli. While he can't quite manage to move up with enough time to swing his weapon, he has a club which he can use to disrupt Halli.
RIlmor moves up to deal with Halli as Omar releases two arrows as well. One solidly striking Halli and dropping her to the floor.
While searching the bodies you find a good amount of gear but nothing that directs you to their motivations behind the attack.
After dealing with the bandits you return to the lodge with no further incident. Arriving back at the Lodge, you turn over all the items you managed to collect. Reporting back to Ambrus he congratulates you on the jobs well done and assures you, "I promise you that not every mission will be simple errands for me about Absalom. I have word from all four of my contacts, and you performed admirably. Here is your pay. You should know that others have noticed your success as well, for good or bad."
You each receive the sum of 417 gold pieces!
After having some time to yourselves from the tasks of the Pathfinder Society you are once again summoned to duty. Before seeing to your task ahead Ambrus informs you that some members of your party had been called away on other assignments and instructs that you'll be meeting some new members at the event you will be attending.
You have all received invitations to a party being held this evening at the Lantern Lodge, the beautiful and exotic estate of the Tian venture-captain, Amara Li, in Absalom’s Petal District. Tonight, the invitation informs you, is the Snapdragon Festival, a traditional Gokan holiday featuring fireworks and rich plum wine. You are encouraged to dress to impress, and are instructed to seek out the hostess and head of the Lantern Lodge, Amara Li, upon your arrival.
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Not being properly attired or equipped for a a formal event, Grisbane spent some time that day shopping for some suitable attire that would permit him to make a proper first impression upon his host. Being from the cold and harsh lands of the north he did not have the keenest eye for fashion, and ended up settling on a fairly well made robe and sash, polished boots, and a fashionable cape. From the store he also purchased some fine trim to be sewn into the hem and sleeves of the robe, to allow for a more lavish appearance.
Once back at the dorms Grisbane neatly groomed his beard and mustache, combed his silver hair and reapplied his tribal braids. He bathed, slipped into his new attire, and prepared himself for the evenings events.
At the appointed hour Grisbane made his was to the Lantern Lodge, curious to see what the evening had in store for him.
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Polami takes some time to go shopping for appropriate clothes -- something fashionable, but nothing that would hinder her in combat. After some thought she leaves the majority of her gear at home, but does bring a rapier and potion of Cure Light Wounds.
As she arrived at the manor, Polami realized that this would be the first time she had attended a real party since leaving home. She resolved to enjoy herself, but also to remember that this was primarily business. No more than one glass of plum wine, no matter how exquisite, and no flirting with civilians.
As she waited to get in, Polami sighed. "I like parties," she said to no one in particular,"But I hate crowds."
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Terrill isn't much used to fancy parties, having only really known the humbler celebrations of the church of Desna, and he hasn't been to any of those since he fled Andoran to follow Desna's true path. He's not sure what to expect, but knows that his companions have all headed off to shop for the right clothes, and he endeavors to do the same.
He finds himself in a shop full of bright, flashy clothes, and settles on something that isn't too shocking in color, but he's got a feeling it isn't quite right. To make up for it, he seeks out a jeweler and buys a pair of very nice rings, with beautiful gemstones in simple settings, his elven heritage guiding him in this decision at least. Having completed his shopping, he now looks like a cheap, dockside entertainer wearing very tasteful jewelry.
Blissfully ignorant of his odd appearance, he sets off for the Lantern Lodge, invitation in hand, wishing he had his blade on his back.
After the group has spent several minutes perusing the party, you are invited into Amara Li’s private study, where you find her seated on a reed mat before a low table set with an exquisite porcelain tea set. She motions for you all to sit with her around the table, and once the door is closed behind you and you have taken your seats, she begins talking in a low, hushed voice without even the hint of a Tian accent:
"Well met, Pathfinders, and welcome to the Lantern Lodge. I hope you find the Snapdragon Festival and my hospitality worthy of your time and energy. I have not brought you here for mere pleasantries, however, and wish to ask you to partake a dangerous mission on my behalf."
"Long ago, one of my most esteemed ancestors, who was rich in power but poor in sense, gave a gift to a foreign prince, a gift that prince did not deserve and my foolish ancestor had no right to give — a ceremonial jade katana. At the time the gift was sent, its recipient was invading this island. He laid siege to Absalom from his fortress in the foothills of the Kortos Mounts. Like those who came before him, the warlord failed to take Absalom and perished in the attempt. On the very day of his defeat, his castle crumbled to dust in a violent earthquake and has been lost to the centuries ever since. My family’s heirloom was lost with it."
"A recent report by a group of Pathfinders gives me hope that they have finally found the ruin, and I might finally recover my family’s treasure. I’m looking for an intrepid group to retrieve it for me, and I’m hoping that is you. The fame and wealth you will doubtlessly recover will bring you much honor within the Society, and if you deliver the katana to me, you will have my favor as you begin your careers as full agents of the Pathfinder Society."
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"Well, we're fairly intrepid, and I think all of us would be happy to have the fame and wealth you describe, as well as honor within the Society," says Terrill, his cheap-looking outfit contrasting with his thoughtful demeanor. "But I agree with my companions," he continues, "that any additional information you can provide could make the difference between success and failure in our mission. The prince must have been mighty indeed, or foolish beyond imagining, to think he could capture Absalom - perhaps his castle has equally powerful safeguards, even after all this time. And where do the ruins lie? Can you provide us with us with horses, a magic carpet, or some other means of transport if it is a long journey?"
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Grisbane paled slightly at the mention of a magic carpet, the thought of such a method of transportation sent shivers down his spine.
"Indeed, more information on the location as well as any historical information remaining about the castle would be of great use. Since the span of time is so great, my guess is much could have changed during the time between its fall and potential rediscovery, but anything would be useful."
Turning to the assembled Pathfinders gathered around him, he made his introductions, "Grisbane Holgrim, Pathfinder and Arcanist, at your service. While my knowledge of the ancient ruins of these lands may prove lacking, my hopes are that I am able to assist in this assignment all the same."
She attempts to answer all questions nodding at the approvals and acceptencies of her deed.
"As far as reports have gone it is easily locatable out in the Cairnlands. I have some directions here." She pulls out a small piece of parchment which she hands to whomever will take it. "It should be easy enough to find now that we know of it's location."
"The location fits the description of the old fortress, so we are fairly certain this is the correct location. There is little information about the site as the other Pathfinders did not delve very deeply. The fortress was under the command of Taliq Asad, an ambitious Qadiran general. It feel some four hundred years ago." Amara shakes her head "He was not powerful per say, but indeed foolish. Although he was not the first to attack Absalom as the Cairnlands are waster with ruins of such sights lost to history, and I'm sure he will not be the last. As for transportation, I can provide horses but it is not much of a journey on foot."
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Terrill listens to Amara's answers, then says "Forgive me, I hadn't understood that the castle was in the Cairnlands. I have travelled much further on foot, and horses would probably not be safe left tied up outside while we explore the ruins. All in all, I agree with Omar, I believe we are up to the task, and I would be happy to undertake this mission for the Society."
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Magda barely avoids jumping up and down in excitement. "This sounds like fun. Gosh, I hope it's not too dangerous. Sure, we'll do our best to return your family heirloom. "
Looking around at the other novice pathfinders: "I agree, walking seems the best way to travel." Looks at her short legs and stature, "If anyone really WANTS to let me ride on your shoulders for part of the way I can air condition your journey in return. Gosh, won't this be exciting!!! We're going on an ADVENTURE!"
Amara bows in gratitude as she shows you out of the tea room. As you leave Amara's tea room you are stopped by a man decked out in the military fineries of an Eagle Knight’s ceremonial uniform— a bright blue overcoat with polished gold buttons, gold eagle epaulets, and a fine, black felt tricorn hat. The handsome man is a charmer who clearly thinks very highly of himself. He speaks loudly and confidently, as if he wants the entire party to “overhear” his conversation with you.
"Greetings, Pathfinders! I hear you’re headed out into the Cairnlands on official Society business. Best of luck outside the city walls, though you look like sturdy enough adventurers. Perhaps not Eagle Knight material, but qualified for the work of a Pathfinder."
“A word of warning, though, friends—beware the walking dead. The crumbling ruins surrounding the city are rife with them, and you’re likely to run into more than your fair share over the course of your career. Undeath and the undead are more than just a physical peril, however. Undeath is the worst kind of slavery. And it should be eradicated like all servitude, whether to aristocracy or to mental control. Being enslaved to the flesh beyond when Pharasma calls one’s soul to the Boneyard is a fate I wouldn't wish upon my greatest enemy. So while you plumb the depths of Asad’s Keep, remember your solemn duty to your fellow man—both living and dead. Any undead you encounter along the way should be freed of their earthly shell."
“If you prove your dedication to freedom, the resources of Andoran will be at your disposal in your future endeavors.”
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Grisbane nods at the Knight, understanding all to well the dangers of the undead, "Take comfort in the fact that any beings suffering from unlife will be put to rest if our path crosses them. If we should fall in our efforts, I would hope you would provide our souls the same peace as well if at all possible."
Omar chuckles at Polami's comment.
The Eagle Knight shurgs and shakes his head "I don't know much in the ways of spells or magics but I would say using anything with an undead taint can't be too good." He nods a thanks "If there is nothing else, I am glad you will see to the duty of putting any undead to rest. I must meeetup with some of the other members of the party."
If no more questions he walks off to mingle with some other guests.
After spending some time mingling at the party and enjoying the festivities. There is a magnificent fireworks display with several vibrant colors. As the party winds down, and you are all on your way out a well-dressed Keleshite man approaches you and asks for a quick word.
Trade Prince Aaqir al’Hakam is soft-spoken and subtle, quite the contrast to Major Maldris’s ostentatious pomposity. He draws you to the side, away from any crowds or activity, and addresses you in a slow, level voice with a strong Kelish accent.
“Like a fast-spoken djinn, I’ll get to the quick. I know where you are going. House Damaq of Qadira claim the ruin, but we are willing to allow you access for the price of a small deed easily accomplished during your adventure. You will be well compensated, I assure you, for profits are most rewarding when shared. I assume treasure-seekers like yourselves are interested in such a proposition?”
Without waiting for an answer, he continues, his eyes intent and his posture rigid. “The ruin is Qadiran, which is why we claim it, and we are willing to defend it, but there are really only certain things left in Asad’s Keep we are interested in: trade agreements, of which we believe there to be many within the ruins. All we ask that you do is to turn over all trade agreements you find to us as soon as you return to Absalom, as we will be able to hold the signers to them even centuries after their signing."
“The satrap of Qadira— nay, the entire Padishah Empire of Kelesh—has much to offer the Pathfinder Society, and I personally have no qualms about sharing those resources with you, specifically. Shall we shake on this agreement?”
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Grisbane looks around to his companions, at a loss for a proper response, and says "Sir, I'm not sure we are authorized to enter into any binding agreement regarding a mission without clearance from the Society, but if there is no conflict of interests here I do not see why we would not be able to lend you our assistance. The Venture-Captain failed to mention that the ruins we seek were under the claim or control of anyone though, so you must understand our confusion. She did mention that at one time, centuries ago, they were under the command of Taliq Asad, whom I am now assuming is your link to your claim?"
Thinking for a moment he adds, "If we were willing to obtain these agreements for you, would you in turn be willing to allow us to first clear this additional task with our captain?"
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Terrill also stands by quietly as Grisbane speaks, then adds, "My companion has summed up the situation quite well. Given that you have a legitimate claim to these documents, we'll just let our Venture-Captain know of this new development and be on our way. Sound good?" he adds, a slight smile on his face.
Aaqir nods in agreement "There should be no issues and I am grateful for your assistance! If there is nothing else, I shall be on my way and good luck in your expedition. Your venture-captain will know where to find me upon your return."
Unless otherwise detained, he will leave you to your task. The majority of the other party goers have also cleared out of the event.
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Grisbane nods at Aaqir and watches him leave. Once he feels no one else is in earshot he adds, "It seems like our task has been made clear before us, I'd suggest we retire for the evening, sleep off that plum wine a few of you seemed to be fond of, and get an early start in the morning."
He would be extremely happy to get back to the dorms and get out of the finery he wore for the event, not liking the idea of running around town looking like a dandy from the south.
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"We should call it an early evening. I do suggest we check immediately with Amara Li, our venture captain, to verify what Aaqir told us. We can probably accomplish that, discreetly, when we thank our host for the invitation. That done, I agree with Grisbane: our task is clear."
Magda is not above getting one more glass of plum wine before we depart, but does not drink so much as to become tipsy. She prefers to travel back to our lodgings with the largest group possible.